Understanding the endocannabinoid system as a modulator of the trigeminal pain response to concussion

Abstract

Post-traumatic headache is the most common symptom of postconcussion syndrome and becomes a chronic neurological disorder in a substantial proportion of patients. This review provides a brief overview of the epidemiology of postconcussion headache, research models used to study this disorder, as well as the proposed mechanisms. An objective of this review is to enhance the understanding of how the endogenous cannabinoid system is essential for maintaining the balance of the CNS and regulating inflammation after injury, and in turn making the endocannabinoid system a potential modulator of the trigeminal response to concussion. The review describes the role of endocannabinoid modulation of pain and the potential for use of phytocannabinoids to treat pain, migraine and concussion.

Cannabidiol's neuroprotective properties and potential treatment of traumatic brain injuries

“…At this time, there's no empirical evidence that CBD is effective at treating posttraumatic headache. However, CBD's ability to regulate inflammation may help prevent the sensitization of the trigeminal pain circuit ( 242 ) that underlies posttraumatic headache ( 243 ). Further research is warranted for specifically investigating CBD's potential as a pain treatment from TBI etiology.…”

Expression of Cannabinoid Receptors in the Trigeminal Ganglion of the Horse

“…Research in human trigeminal neuralgia has explored the involvement of the neuromodulatory endocannabinoid system (ECS) [4]. The ECS comprises endocannabinoid molecules involved in signaling processes, along with receptors such as the cannabinoid type 1 (CB1R) and type 2 (CB2R) receptors, and enzymes associated with ligand biosynthesis, activation, and degradation.…”